WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | Former House Speaker Push Health Plan

Former House Speaker Push Health Plan

A one time national leader is teaming up with local organizers to promote a healthier Columbus.  Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich came to town Friday morning, for an event called Diabetes University. 

Gingrich is trying to improve care, treatment, and outcomes for those with diabetes.  He also wants to raise awareness at the same time to adults and kids at a young age.  "Young people have to be winged away from their video games, computers, and television.  We need to reinstate physical education for K-12 just to get them back in the habit of doing something for an hour," said Gingrich. 

A Midland Middle School parent encourages her daughter everyday to exercise and eat healthier foods to prevent her from being obese and developing diabetes.  "I make sure I keep up with her diet.  I also make her go outside and play," said Towanda Watson, Columbus Parent. 

Organizers of Diabetes University are looking at new ways to make kids aware of diabetes.  "We are trying to develop new initiatives in the schools of Columbus and surrounding areas to emphasize physical education and to decrease obesity.  We are also planning to encourage healthy eating at both schools and home," said Dr. Steven Leichter, Event Organizers. 

Many physical education teachers also are stressing the importance of exercise to their students.  "I tell them if they get positive fitness habits now they are more likely to carry those fitness habits a lifetime," said Gloria Brown, Midland Middle P.E. Teacher. 

Gingrich appearance is also part of an effort to make Columbus a community model of quality health and healthcare.